Traditional and Healthy Kanji Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of Kanji rice
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1/2 cup of chopped carrots
  • 1/2 cup of chopped beans
  • 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup of frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • 10 curry leaves
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander leaves
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the Kanji rice thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear.
  2. Transfer the washed rice to a large pot and add water, salt, and turmeric powder.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has a porridge-like consistency.
  4. While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  5. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds to the pan and let them crackle.
  6. Then add chopped green chilies, grated ginger, curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds.
  7. Add chopped carrots, beans, bell peppers, and frozen peas to the pan. Sauté the vegetables until they are cooked but still retain a bit of crunch.
  8. Once the rice is cooked and the vegetables are sautéed, add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of rice and mix well.
  9. Cook the mixture for another 5-10 minutes on a low heat, stirring occasionally.
  10. Before serving, add chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice to the Kanji, and mix well.
  11. Serve the Kanji hot, garnished with a few additional coriander leaves if desired.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - To cook the Kanji rice and vegetables.
  • Pan - To sauté the vegetables and temper the spices.
  • Spatula - To stir the rice and vegetables while cooking.
  • Grater - To grate the ginger.
  • Chopping board - To chop the vegetables.
  • Knife - To cut and chop the vegetables.
  • Measuring cup - To measure the quantity of rice and water accurately.
  • Tablespoon - To measure the quantity of olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped coriander leaves.
  • Teaspoon - To measure the quantity of salt and turmeric powder.

Recipe variations

  • Replace Kanji rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
  • Add diced tofu or tempeh for a protein-rich vegetarian version.
  • Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or fish for a non-vegetarian option.
  • Add different vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, or kale to customize the flavor and nutrition.
  • Experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, or garam masala to enhance the taste.
  • Garnish with roasted peanuts or cashews for an added crunch.
  • Add coconut milk for a creamy variation.
  • Include chopped tomatoes or tomato puree for a tangy twist.
  • Try using vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of tamarind paste for a hint of sourness.

Recipe overview

Kanji is a comforting, nutritious, and versatile one-pot dish hailing from the Indian subcontinent. This recipe combines the heartiness of Kanji rice with a colorful mix of vegetables, all simmered together to create a delicious porridge-like consistency. The addition of spices like turmeric, mustard seeds, and cumin imparts a warm and aromatic flavor that's perfectly balanced by the tanginess of fresh lemon juice. Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires basic ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Expect a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and colors that will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Enjoy hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves for an added touch of freshness.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook Kanji rice?
    It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to cook Kanji rice until it reaches a porridge-like consistency.
  2. Can I use any other type of rice instead of Kanji rice?
    No, Kanji rice is a specific type of rice that is recommended for this recipe as it yields the desired texture and consistency.
  3. Can I add more vegetables to the Kanji?
    Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding more vegetables of your choice. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
  4. Can I make Kanji in advance?
    Yes, you can make Kanji in advance and reheat it before serving. However, note that the consistency may thicken after refrigeration, so you may need to add a little water while reheating.
  5. Is Kanji a suitable dish for people with dietary restrictions?
    Yes, Kanji is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly dish. It is also gluten-free. However, if you have any specific dietary concerns or allergies, it's always best to check the ingredients and make any necessary modifications.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Kanji, often referred to as Rice Porridge, holds a special place in the culinary culture of South India. Its roots trace back to ancient times, where it was seen as a nourishing, easy-to-digest meal, ideal for those who were ill or recovering. Traditionally, it was also the first solid food introduced to babies. As the recipe traveled across regions, the basic rice and water concoction was often spruced up with local flavors and ingredients. Today, you'll find a myriad of variations, each carrying the unique touch of the region it hails from. The recipe shared here is a more elaborate version, teeming with vegetables and spices, a testament to the South Indian penchant for marrying health with flavor.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases after you click on affiliate product links (thanks for that). But we hope the links will be relevant and beneficial to you as well.